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MTG fans frequently enjoy tribe-based decks — what player hasn't constructed a goblin strategy before? — while the new Avatar: The Last Airbender crossover set is reintroducing two beloved mechanics which match perfectly to the theme.

Reappearing Tribal Abilities

The initial mechanic, named "Allies," first debuted in a Zendikar set and provides buffs each time more permanents with this type come onto the battlefield.

On the other hand, "Shrines" represents an enchantment-based subtype that first appeared in Kamigawa. Although not creature-based tribe, Shrines likewise become power as a player controls more of them on the battlefield.

A Return of the Ally Mechanic

Although Shrine cards have shown up sporadically across newer sets, the Ally mechanic was seldom seen — until this ends with Avatar: The Last Airbender, in which the feature gets prominently used.

Aang must assemble many companions on his quest to bring back balance across the world, so there's no more fitting method to represent that through an Magic expansion.

Exclusive Cards Showcase

After the first card reveal, below are previews at an Allies plus a Shrine cards in the upcoming Avatar: The Last Airbender set.

Teo: The Beloved Figure

This character is a beloved supporting character in ATLA, a boy of Earth Kingdom that lived in the Northern Air Temple after his village was destroyed in a flood, an event that left him paraplegic.

Because of his dad's skill in mechanics, Teo can soar in the air using a flying device, even challenges the Avatar in a flying race.

This card Teo, Spirited Glider represents Teo's passion of flying along with the Earth Tribe's use on flying machines by letting you loot each time a player attacks with a flying creature, while also boosting your team with counters at the same time.

Northern Air Temple: The Powerful Shrine

Speaking of his home, it appears as the card Northern Air Temple, that reduces an opponent's life when entering the battlefield, based on how many of Shrines you have.

It also drains one more life whenever a Shrine comes onto the field.

It appears to be a powerful addition, considering the card's low cost and valuable ETB ability.

One big weakness of Shrine-based decks in formats besides EDH is that these cards are always Legendary, however this card can be great when paired with Sanctum of Stone Fangs, that drains every opponent during the start of your turn.

A Timely Crossover

At a time when crossover sets have been receiving a lot of hate from fans, an iconic franchise like Avatar can be precisely what Magic: The Gathering needs.

Spoiler season has begun, with the full set set to be released November 21st.